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It seemed like Upper Peninsula residents waited a little bit longer than usual for the lingering winter of 2025-26 to dissipate and consistent summer-like weather to arrive. And along with summer comes all the things we expect, including picnics, camping, swimming and a great many road construction projects.
Yes, mixed in with all the things we look forward to during nice weather are those road projects that can seem a little annoying, especially if they delay a trip. However, these projects will be making improvements to the routes we travel by motor vehicle and when finished will be welcomed by motorists.
While we absolutely understand that road construction can be a hassle for motorists, it is vital to recognize that well-maintained roads are important for the health of our vehicles and the safety of those of us who are in those vehicles. While the prospect of added time to your schedule due to sitting in stopped traffic may not be ideal, Upper Peninsula residents (and by extension, most Michiganders, we believe) will tell you that our roads are in desperate need of work, largely due to the extreme weather conditions that we deal with throughout the winter.
And here’s something important to keep in mind. To help protect workers, there are increased fines and other penalties for drivers who break driving rules, cause accidents or injure workers. However, motorists shouldn't be extra cautious while driving through construction zones just because of the increased fines and other penalties, but because nobody wants to be the cause of any injuries to workers or damage to vehicles or equipment. If you think the delays associated with construction zones slowing traffic are a hassle, they are nothing compared to the problems you'll have if you cause an accident or get pulled over for violating traffic laws in a construction zone.
As a general proposition, for up-to-date information during construction season, check www.Michigan.gov/drive, MDOT’s interactive MiDrive map. Motorists can see which projects are active, where lanes are closed or detours are in place.